California Masters in Journalism Programs Online

By pursuing a masters in journalism online, you could tackle advanced communications topics that may best potentially enhance, or jumpstart, a career in the media industry. While you’re splitting your time between work, family, and social gatherings, the flexible online scheduling might help you seamlessly insert academics into your current routine.

Masters in Journalism Online

Not only that, but you could have the opportunity to engage with new journalism techniques from the comfort of your home. Thanks to online courses, you may not have to compromise your lifestyle to meet your top educational goals!

Masters in Journalism Online Common Curriculum

An online masters in journalism aims to develop students’ communications capabilities so that they might confidently and accurately report the news. Of course, this previously only meant writing stories for newspapers. Today, there are many more ways to share news with the public. In many current programs, students could learn more about reporting for digital, broadcast, and viral media. No matter which medium you prefer, students might expand their understanding of general journalism techniques and strategies as part of a journalism masters online. Though courses may differ by school, some common curriculum might include the following.

Strategic Communication

Global Communication

Research Methods

Data Analysis

Professional Writing

History of Journalism

For a more information about possible courses, check with your intended programs.

Why Potentially Earn a Journalism Masters Online?

At this point, you may be asking yourself “why should I earn my journalism masters online?” The answer is simple: convenience. Online journalism masters programs allow students to log into their courses as their time allows. For current media professionals who have busy schedules, this might be the difference between pursuing a degree and not. As part of this program, you could potentially attend classes outside of your work hours. In fact, you might be able to plan your course time around your family’s routine, personal obligations, or any other commitments. The flexible online scheduling could make your masters program work for you.

Masters Programs in Journalism Online

Additionally, the online coursework could possibly be beneficial to current journalists who are required to travel often. As a budding reporter, you may be required to trek across the country at a moment’s notice. If you were attending a traditional, campus-based program, you might miss valuable classes. Since you’re attending online though, your classes come with you! This way, you may not miss key concepts that could be important for exams, finals, or your own academic growth.

Not to be forgotten, the online classroom might also be an ideal space to practice new digital technologies. Many journalists are flocking to newer media centers such as social media, online reporting, and podcasts. By taking your classes online, you might have the opportunity to work with these systems first-hand. Not only could this be a chance to engage with modern technologies, but it may also be a great feature to list on your resume! Especially if you are considering pursuing a career in these fields post-graduation.

Finding an Online Journalism Masters Program

When researching potential schools, you may find that an online masters degree in journalism may be offered by a variety of programs. For example, journalism degrees might either be offered as a specific degree or as specialized courses in a general communications program. Each of these option have their own potential benefits, so it’s important to understand which could help you attain your academic goals. As you begin your search, you may come across the common degree types below.

An onlline master of science in communication (MS) and a master of arts in communication (MA) are two programs that cover more general communication concepts. This means you could encounter other media types such as advertising, marketing, and PR. In addition, these programs often offer journalism concentrations. These programs may be a great way to pursue a holistic media degree, but also engage with specialized journalism coursework. They could also be extremely versatile degrees when looking for possible careers!

A master of communication management degree might be a great way to develop managerial techniques for future career enhancement. Again, these programs may include journalism elements, but also include other communications methods that could be beneficial for the developing industry.

Though curriculum may vary between schools and degree types, students could potentially earn a masters degree in journalism online in 1.5 to 2 years. This shorter timeline might be perfect for current working professionals who are eager to apply their new skills and knowledge directly to their craft!

Journalism Masters Programs Online Requirements

While applying to masters in journalism online programs may seem daunting, many universities try to keep their programs accessible to a wide range of students. For example, unlike many other graduate programs, these masters programs typically do not require students to submit GRE scores in order to apply. By not having to take GRE tests, you could possibly save yourself valuable time and money. Not to mention, you won’t have to take an arduous test. Generally, students are required to submit a 3.0 undergraduate GPA in addition to portfolios of previous work or letters of recommendation. Schools vary, so follow up with your preferred programs for further graduation and application details.

Education After Earning an Online Masters Degree in Journalism

After earning a masters in journalism online, many students may choose to follow professional pursuits. While that is an option, others might choose to continue their education and earn an online doctorate in journalism instead. Since doctoral programs typically require graduate coursework to apply, this could make it the logical next step following a masters degree. While a masters program might have provided you a taste of graduate work, doctoral coursework could expand your journalism knowledge with advanced topics like ethical journalism, advertising theory, and cultural communications. Some possible doctoral degree programs might include the below.

Professional Journalism Opportunities

As mentioned above, some students do directly jump into the professional sphere after earning their masters in journalism online. The skills and knowledge you developed as part of your degree program could be applied to some of the following careers.

Both of these professions require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions, but a master’s program may prepare you for future career enhancement.i,ii The advanced techniques you might have learned in your masters program could be a great asset when applying for positions as a manager, producer, or editor.iii For those new to the field, an online masters degree in journalism may help you develop the fundamentals to potentially jumpstart a career in the industry. Writers and reporters may potentially earn a median of $60,250i and $37,720ii, respectively, per year.

Find a Perfect Online Journalism Masters Program Today!

Use this information to find a perfect online masters degree in journalism! On this page, you can view a list of potential programs. For more information about a program, click its associated link. While there, click the “request info” button to receive more information about your intended program. This might be a great way to scope out admissions requirements, potential curriculum, or just start speaking with some possible schools. Good luck finding a perfect masters in journalism online!

California Baptist University

Explore the theories, strategies and concepts that support effective communication in CBU's online Masters in Communication program. Students are challenged to integrate biblical thought as they research, plan, and evaluate communication practices.

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